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THE
November/December 2021
Dangers of Philips CPAP & Sleep Apnea Machines
are claims that users had been complaining about the issues for many years, but Philips didn’t issue a public warning until April 2021. It was another two months, June 14, 2021, before Philips recalled the devices. Interestingly, Philips didn’t announce the recall of their machines until right around the time they were coming out with a newer device. Many patients who desperately need these devices had no choice but to purchase the newer machine, meaning Philips continued to profit even after they made the recall of their current machine public.
PHILIPS LAWSUITS ARE BASED ON TWO VIOLATIONS:
1. Design Defect
One of the reasons people were filing lawsuits against Philips is for the simple fact that the devices they sold to patients were defective and dangerous. The foam they used in the device is so toxic that when it degrades, it can cause cancer.
2. Failure to Warn
Many people who suffer from sleep apnea used a device from Philips Respironics and, instead of helping them sleep better, it caused cancer in many users. There’s nothing more frustrating than putting your trust in a medical device and a company that claims it can help you, only to have it injure you instead.
Not only did Philips use materials in their medical devices that were incredibly dangerous, but they failed to warn the public as soon as they became aware of the risks. There are allegations that users had been complaining of health issues as a result of the foam for years. At the very least, Philips became aware of the issue in April 2021 and didn’t issue a recall until the middle of June 2021. This means that people continued to buy and use the machines for at least two months, despite the fact that Philips knew the risks.
THE ISSUE WITH PHILIPS CPAP AND SLEEP APNEAMACHINES
Philips recalled millions of CPAP and other sleep apnea machines because many users were inhaling toxic foam caused by a defect with their machines. Ingesting this toxic foam can cause cancer and other major health problems. Aside from causing cancer, many users also reported headaches, upper airway irritations, coughing, chest pressure, sinus infections, asthma, damage to their liver and kidneys, nausea, vomiting, and increased breathing problems.
CONTACT US
If you were injured as a result of the Philips sleep apnea machine, we want to help. We have a team of attorneys to fight on your behalf. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for a free case review.
CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT
Contact us today at 248.258.3500.
In June 2021, a class-action lawsuit was filed against Philips in Massachusetts. The lawsuit claims that Philips knew about the toxic foam and the severe health issues it was causing people for years. There
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CELEBRITIES COME CLEAN
HAVE A LOW-STRESS HOLIDAY 3 Tips for a Merrier Time
They’re Not Washing Daily — Should You? This past summer, celebrities went out of their way to tell us they don’t bathe very often. With the higher temperatures, it was an odd time to announce a casual relationship with soap, but that didn’t stop stars like Ashton Kutcher, Kristen Bell, and Jake Gyllenhaal. It got so bad that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Jason Momoa released statements assuring us that they do shower daily. The anti-shower celebrities’ argument was that too much soap is bad for your skin. Bathing too often, they argued, was not just unnecessary but could also be unhealthy. The hullabaloo has since died down, but it’s worth asking: Do the celebs have a point? As it turns out, frequent showers are more of a cultural than health practice. For example, two-thirds of Americans shower every day, but only about half of Chinese people do. Meanwhile, almost 90% of Mexicans shower daily, and Brazilians average two showers per day. Climate, access to clean water, and cultural norms all play a role. But, according to dermatologists, the stars might be onto something. While there’s no consensus on how often you should shower, dermatologists agree that washing with soap every day is unnecessary for most people. Soap dries out the skin, often making it itchy, irritated, and more prone to infections and allergic reactions. Antibacterial soap can kill off good bacteria that helps our bodies, and some evidence even suggests that washing with soap too frequently can weaken the immune system. That said, dermatologists agree that some people should shower every day, including those who work out regularly, literally get dirty at their jobs, or work with harsh chemicals and odors. And anytime you start to smell, you should definitely lather up. If you want to reduce how often you shower, dermatologists agree you should wash your face, armpits, and groin area with soap daily. Then, when you do shower, wash with warm (not hot) water and a moisturizing soap and try to keep your shower under 10 minutes. It’s important to wash gently instead of scrub your skin hard, and you should pat (not rub) yourself dry and apply lotion after your shower. These tips will ensure you stay clean while also protecting your skin. In the end, it’s how you shower — and not how often — that likely matters most to your skin health.
The holidays are right around the corner, and while many people can’t wait to eat turkey and swap presents, others only see stress on the horizon. Especially for those hosting parties, between decorations, big dinners, excited kids, and visiting family, it can all feel overwhelming. If celebrations are happening at your house this year, here are three tips to lessen the strain and keep up the holiday cheer.
RECHARGE FIRST
Ensure you’re rested and recharged before the holidays by taking time to relax, getting enough sleep, and engaging in activities that make you feel good. When you’re rushing to get everything done, it can be tempting to skip self-care routines, but that will cost you in the long run. Your daily exercise and other health activities keep you balanced and ready to face challenges head-on.
GET STARTED EARLY
Holidays always arrive faster than we expect, so begin preparing early. If shopping for presents is a pain point, don’t wait until the last minute. Decorate earlier than you need to — or better yet, get the kids to do it for you. There’s only so much cooking you can do ahead of time, but ensuring you have all of the equipment and nonperishable ingredients you need a few weeks in advance will reduce both your workload and anxiety.
DON’T EXPECT PERFECTION
The sooner you let go of the idea of a “perfect” holiday, the sooner you’ll be able to have a happy one. Face it: Something will go wrong. Whether it’s an overcooked dish, a child throwing a temper tantrum, or your uncle talking politics at the dinner table, nothing will ever go just how you planned. So, embrace the imperfections. Whether you’re celebrating this year with a group of two or 20, holidays can be a stressful time — but they don’t have to be. With these tips, your festivities may not be picture-perfect, but they will be a lot of fun.
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CO-PARENTING DURING THE HOLIDAYS CONSISTENCY IS KEY
as possible so everyone can stay calm and enjoy the holiday season. The holidays are breeding grounds for stress. If you know that visiting family and friends will add to that stress, perhaps that would not be the best thing for you to do as a family; however, if it provides a sense of peace and feelings of belonging for your children, then I suggest you maintain the strength of mind to ensure your children experience the traditions they have always known.
When parents aren’t getting along, children can sense the tension, and it can make them feel uncomfortable, anxious, and worried. During the holiday season, children are accustomed to their traditions and are excited to see their families. Even if you are not getting along with your former partner or spouse, it is crucial that you do everything you can to maintain normalcy for your children so they can enjoy their holidays. Do your best to ensure your children will still be able to follow their regular holiday schedule and see both your family and your former partner’s family as they normally would despite your differences. If possible, consider attending events and gatherings with your former partner so the children do not have any distress by missing one of you or harbor feelings of guilt or loneliness, especially if they feel one of you is being left out. Children carry a lot of guilt and shame when their parents divorce, and they are burdened by things that should not burden them. Emotionally mature adults can help assuage children’s anxiety and provide a sense of balance, calm, and peace. The holidays are stressful enough without the angst of a divorce added to the mix.
BE REASONABLE
Remember, the holidays are about your family, and your children are thrilled to attend the festivities. If your former partner has a special event they would like to take the children to that doesn’t fall within their parenting time, be flexible. Do not cause unnecessary complications and arguments or prevent your children from going to a holiday event solely because you don’t want to change days. Have a conversation, switch times, or even offer to go with them so you can still have your parenting time. Remember that parenting time is about the children. They deserve to have their traditions and have fun. They did not ask for the divorce. Be reasonable, kind, and respectful of your ex. Being a good person does not mean you are weak or that you don’t have boundaries. Being a good person and rising above the adversities means you are extraordinary and can handle anything that comes your way.
COMMUNICATION IS CRUCIAL
Regardless of your differences, it is important to communicate effectively with your former partner regarding events and schedules. Make sure you have a plan for the children, and carry out that plan as seamlessly
Inspired by Delish.com
CRONIN LAW FIRM WELCOMES: We are excited to introduce two new attorneys that have joined The Cronin Law Firm, effectively expanding our ability to help you with your legal needs. Please welcome Kimberly Cochrane and Jennifer Montasir to our office. Both attorneys bring solid legal skills, enhancing our ability to continue providing stellar representation to our clients. We are also proud to share that our law clerk of over a year, Samantha Ayers, has successfully passed her bar exam, graduating her position to an associate attorney!
VEGAN GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE
INGREDIENTS •
1 small onion, sliced
• • • • •
2 shallots, chopped
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7 tbsp extra virgin olive oil, divided 1/4 cup and 3 tbsp flour, divided 2 tbsp panko breadcrumbs
8 oz can mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 lb green beans, cooked
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3 cups almond milk
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DIRECTIONS 1. Set the oven to broil. 2. In a shallow baking pan, combine onion, 1 tbsp olive oil, 3 tbsp flour, and panko breadcrumbs. 3. Broil for 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Afterward, preheat the oven to 375 F. 4. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil. Add shallots, mushrooms, and garlic, stirring until tender.
5. In a large bowl, mix
We look forward to 2022 and the continued expansion of The Cronin Law Firm.
mushroom mixture with the cooked green beans.
6. In the same skillet, add 4 tbsp olive oil and 1/4 cup of flour, whisking until golden. Gradually add the almond milk until it thickens, then toss with the green beans. 7. Transfer mixture into a baking dish and cook for 20 minutes. 8. Add onion and breadcrumb mixture on top, then bake for another 5 minutes.
Kimberly Cochrane
Jennifer Montasir
Samantha Ayers
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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID BOISE, ID PERMIT 411
21 East Long Lake Rd., Suite 250 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248.258.3500 www.croninlawfirm.com
INSIDE
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Dangers of Philips CPAP & Sleep Apnea Machines
Lowering Holiday Stress Are Daily Showers Necessary?
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How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones From Abuse of Power Co-Parenting During the Holidays Vegan Green Bean Casserole
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BRITNEY SPEARS’ CONSERVATORSHIP
How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones From Abuse of Power
Probate laws that control conservatorships can be daunting, especially in a case similar to what Britney Spears has experienced over the past several years. Conservatorships are generally granted in cases wherein the protected individual (the person who the conservatorship is for) is no longer able to make decisions on their own. For example, the person may have experienced a physical injury or could be temporarily mentally unfit to make decisions for themselves because of their life circumstances. Conservatorships can be useful tools to control the protected individual’s assets and shield them from harm; however, if the appointed conservator abuses their power, the conservatorship could do more harm than good. In Britney’s case, her father’s control over her life has been publicly scrutinized since 2008, when he was appointed the conservator. There have been allegations of cameras in Britney’s home, tracking her movements, refusing to allow her access to her finances, and even forcing her to work when she did not want to. Although a conservator may have the power to control the protected person’s assets and make important decisions on their behalf, the conservator is never allowed to abuse that power to the detriment of the protected individual, which is why they are bound by fiduciary duties. Whenever a conservator is violating their fiduciary duties, the protected individual or anyone who is concerned for them can petition the court for their removal to hold the conservator accountable for their abuse of power.
Recently, after years of battling the system, Britney was finally able to retain her own legal counsel and remove her father as her conservator. Britney had to petition the court to allow her access to her own funds, to remove her father as conservator, and to end the conservatorship in its entirety. Given everything Britney has gone through, it is imperative that people are informed about their decisions and their duties when it comes to a conservatorship. The Cronin Law Firm has experienced attorneys who work in the probate courts and understand the Michigan laws surrounding things such as guardianships, conservatorships, probate estates, and estate planning. Speaking with an attorney can help you navigate the complexities and allow you to leave the meeting feeling safe, secure, and protected about your assets or your family member’s assets. Don’t let what happened to Britney happen to you or a loved one. Contact us today so we can help keep you safe!
The Cronin Law Firm is offering to all of our clients, former clients, or friends of clients, a special 10% off estate planning for the month of January. Please take advantage of this opportunity and give us a call at (248) 258-3500 to see how we can help you create an estate plan or update an existing one.
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